Festive decorations
Review of 2011 Events
Barnoldswick: Saturday, 12 November 2011
Barnoldswick's annual "Switch-on Saturday" started at 12 noon. There was a Santa's Grotto, donkey rides, a funfair and live music featuring Coates Lane School Choir, Tom Scothern, Queen and Country, Daniel Thomas, and The Dunwells who performed songs from their debut album including their brand new single I Could Be a King.
Big J and the Piccolo Chickens were the final act to take to the stage, before taking a short break for the town centre parade at 6pm, which featured large illuminated lanterns in the shapes of mythical creatures and participants dressed in fairytale costumes carrying illuminated swords and wands. The town's festive decorations were switched on as the parade progressed through the streets.
The event was organised by Barnoldswick Town Council.
Nelson: Saturday, 26 November 2011
On a wet and windy day, where everything except for people's spirits was severely dampened, Nelson hosted its Lancashire Day and festive switch-on celebration. Unfortunately, the driving rain and high winds prevented many of the planned stalls from being set up, but there were a number of fairground rides and a free ice rink.
The rain eased by late afternoon and on stage, Queen and Country performed a range of hits, followed a short time later by Nelson Brass Band playing Christmas carols.
Making a guest appearance were the Electroglide Angels.
The Mayor of Pendle, Cllr Nadeem Ahmed, and Nelson's town crier, Cllr Tony Beckett, helped to switch on the lights at 6pm.
The event was organised by Nelson Town Council and Pendle Council.
Brierfield: Friday, 2 December 2011
Brierfield's festive lights were switched on at 7pm. Father Christmas made a special visit to hand out sweets to the children, and entertainment was provided by Merlin's Magic and Nelson Brass Band. Refreshments were available from Travel "n" Bite Burger Bar.
The event was organised by Brierfield Town Council.
Colne: Saturday, 3 December 2011
The theme was Colne's Victorian Christmas Carol, featuring throughout the day market stallholders dressed in Victorian costumes, musical entertainment from choirs and bands, and activities for children.
Olympic bronze medallist Steven Burke switched on the lights from Pendle Leisure Centre at 5pm. Hundreds of participants then joined a torch-
lit procession up through the town, led by a band and the town crier. The procession stopped off at St Bartholomew's Parish Church for a short outdoor service before continuing to the town centre's market hall for a carol service.
A firework extravaganza brought the day's festivities to a fitting close.
The event was organised by Colne Town Council.
